March 29, 2011

India Holds Slight Edge in World Cup 2011

Allan Border considers Dhoni XI as favourites in the high voltage semi final clash at Mohali on 30th March between arch-rivals, Pakistan and India. Border feels bowling to be a huge concern for the Indian team, but withal.

" Not Hesitate To Bet On The Host Side "

"India are going into the game as slight favourites. Playing at home is obviously a big advantage. But Pakistan also know the conditions very well in Mohali," said Border.

Border, who led the Kangaroos to their first ever World Cup victory in 1987, thinks the Indian team lacks sheer pace in their bowling arsenal. However, their batting has a definite edge over Pakistan. The Australian southpaw is looking forward to a crunch match between neighbouring countries and hailed the semi final as the tournament’s best entertainment.

"We have our rivalry with the Englishmen and the Ashes series is famous for that. I think India-Pakistan rivalry is a step up for the fervour it generates. Certainly, can`t wait for Wednesday," added the former Aussie batsman.

Border is in India these days enjoying the cricket fever from both sides of the border. The cricket craze is growing with each passing moment as two old rivals gear up to take on each other in the critical World Cup fixture scheduled for Wednesday.

The Mohali Stadium has never witnessed Pakistan’s defeat to India in a 50-over format. The two cricket’s children, Pakistan and India, have faced each other in 119 one-dayers. Out of 119, the Cornered Tigers have won 69 games, and the Indian side has 46 victories to its credit.

Ricky Ponting, former Australian captain who also led the team in the World Cup 2011, has already predicted Pakistan being thrashed at the hands of India in the semi-final.

The winning side of Pakistan-India clash will storm into the final to play the ultimate contest for the coveted World Cup trophy.